Israeli airstrikes and tank fire have escalated dramatically in Gaza City, targeting various neighborhoods as military preparations signal a potential ground offensive aimed at dismantling Hamas's presence in the territory. Reports indicate that nearly one million Palestinians are at extreme risk as combat intensifies, with residents describing relentless bombings in northern and eastern sections of the city.
The Hamas-run health ministry reported that Israeli attacks over the last 24 hours resulted in 64 deaths and close to 300 injuries, compounding a staggering toll that has seen at least 62,686 fatalities and 157,951 injuries since the onset of the Israeli campaign following the October 7 attacks by Hamas that killed 1,200 people in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing domestic pressure, remains committed to the objective of defeating Hamas, even as international leaders call for restraint.
Approximately 60,000 Israeli reservists are being mobilized as military operations expand. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) emphasized that their engagement in areas such as Jabalia is crucial for stifling Hamas's operational capabilities. However, humanitarian groups have issued stark warnings regarding the catastrophic impact an intensified offensive will have on civilians already grappling with dire living conditions.
In a separate yet related development, the WHO confirmed the release of one of its staff members who had been detained in Gaza since July. Tensions remain high, with a new proposal for a ceasefire negotiated by mediators Qatar and Egypt seeking a temporary truce, yet Israeli officials insist on comprehensive agreements for any further negotiations regarding hostages.
Netanyahu's intentions to proceed with a complete takeover of Gaza, unless Hamas disarms and relinquishes hostage rights, embolden fears of further loss of civilian life. With a humanitarian disaster looming as over 90% of Gaza City's homes are reportedly damaged or destroyed, and more than half of its hospitals out of commission, the crisis is becoming increasingly critical.
Amid ongoing conflicts, urgent calls from international organizations for humanitarian support grow louder, warning that Gaza’s population faces an unprecedented humanitarian crisis as famine conditions begin to emerge across the region.
